Indian captain Shubman Gill is likely to be ruled out of the second Test against South Africa due to a neck cramp sustained during the opening match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Although the injury is not
considered serious, medical experts have advised the batter to rest and avoid further strain. As a result, he may not take the field on November 22 for the series decider.
With Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan already in the squad and likely to feature in the playing XI, India will need to add one more top-order option as Gill’s replacement. The team lacked a batter in Kolkata, which eventually costed them the match against the Proteas. However, Guwahati is their only chance to save themselves from a series whitewash at home.
Here are 3 players who can replace Shubman Gill in second Test against South Africa
3. Ruturaj Gaikwad
Maharashtra batter Ruturaj Gaikwad stands out as one of the strongest contenders for a call-up. He has been in sublime touch across formats, excelling in domestic cricket as well as in India A fixtures. In the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, Gaikwad has already scored two half-centuries and a well-crafted century in just two matches.
His performances in the India A three-match ODI series were equally impressive, where he registered a century and a fifty against competitive bowling attacks. Gaikwad’s ability to adapt to different surfaces, build an innings, and maintain composure under pressure makes him a compelling option to replace Gill.
2. Karun Nair
Karun Nair is another strong candidate who could step into the squad. The Karnataka batter, known for his historic triple century in Test cricket, has been in superb domestic form. Although his performances on the England tour were underwhelming, he has bounced back remarkably in the Ranji Trophy.
Over five matches this season, Nair has amassed 602 runs at a staggering average of 100.33, reaffirming his technical class and temperament. His ability to grind long innings, especially on pitches that offer assistance to bowlers, makes him an ideal pick for Test cricket.
1. Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar, the prolific Madhya Pradesh batter and current state captain, is another frontline choice. Patidar has been in excellent touch, highlighted by an unbeaten double century against Punjab in the Ranji Trophy. His performances in the Duleep Trophy were equally noteworthy, where he struck two centuries and two fifties, playing a pivotal role in Central Zone’s title win.
He is known for his calm presence and strong leadership qualities, and has the temperament to thrive in India’s Test setup. His recent form makes him a deserving contender to slot into Gill’s No. 4 position.
